Seafest Sunday had always meant boat race in my mind. Typically I would be talking about Rum Running Races or Dory Races, but today included a new and very enjoyable new experience, Dragon boating! The dragon boats were purchased a few years ago and have been at Lake Milo. The first year there were lots of teams showing up at the races, but since then not as many, most not hearing about it till the last minute or not having a chance to try it out before. I invited a few friends along, and when we got there there was around 20 people. We did a practice warm up run altogether in one boat, then came back to the dock to make two teams. Our boat seemed to have a good luck charm, and a lot of determination; even with a few less people we managed to come out on top in both heats. (See photo above of the second race finish line) It is an incredible feeling, that burst of energy for a minute or so, where you know your muscles are burning but you can't stop yourself from going until you hear the drum rolling us past the finish line. I liked the experience a lot, and plan to help get a team, dubbed the "Lady Dragons" for next year. I collected a few names and plan on trying to get the turn out a little bit higher for next year.
After a quick stop at home to dry up, I walked briskly down to the waterfront to enjoy the Rum Running races. Once I arrived, my dad told me I had to make one more team since they had 5 and wanted 6 mixed teams. Our team, had a local doctor, paddling instructor and a few other random people we picked up from the crowd. We did well though placing second and had a time of 7 min 50 sec, 40 sec. behind the first place team. More importantly, we had a wonderful time! Events like the Rum Running has been supported for many years by the participants in the Seafest Pageant. Two of the most upbeat, positive, friendly and bright girls from the past few years are the last two Seafest Queens, Ginette (queen in 2008) and Martine (2009). During the pageants from the last few years, I have had no difficulty picking the front runner in these two girls. Their energy and charm were overwhelming, their intelligence, maturity and ability to speak in front of a crowd, was extremely strong to begin with but has only become better and better over the last few years. Ginette attended the Miss Canada International pageant and was chosen as the First Runner Up to Miss Canada International. I was not surprised at all that she did so well! I also anticipate that Martine will shine this year as she represents Southwestern Nova Scotia in the MCI pageant in Toronto. When you meet these girls on the street or at events like the Rum Running, you can be impressed by their bubbling, friendly, kind natures. I wish them both the best as they continue their studies, enter the work force and continue to volunteer in their communities. We are fortunate to have role models such as these two for the young women of Yarmouth!!
The following photos are a mix from Thursday night's Seafest Pageant and from the boat races today. I will try to explain with captions. Enjoy!
We were teasing Martine and Ginette after the ceremony, trying to convince them to give the ever shy, but faithfully involved, Constable Sebastien on the cheek for a photo. They had the cutest reaction, but did it anyway!! Good sports!
Here are a couple more Dragon boat pictures, enjoy!
Theme song for the day: The Saltwater Room by Owl City
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